Loxahatchee River Council collaborates on water quality restoration projects

In a recent meeting of the Environmental Advisory Committee (EAC) held on April 9, 2025, in Tequesta, Florida, discussions centered on the health of the Loxahatchee River and the ongoing efforts to improve water quality in the region. The meeting highlighted the collaborative work between local stakeholders and state agencies, particularly the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in addressing water quality impairments.

One of the key topics was the assessment of the Loxahatchee River, which has been identified as having issues with bacteria and dissolved oxygen levels. The DEP's initiative to test watersheds across Florida has brought attention to these impairments, prompting the formation of the Loxahatchee River Management Coordinating Council. This council, which includes the Village of Tequesta, aims to foster collaborative efforts to restore the river's health. The council's approach is seen as a more cooperative alternative to the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) program, which imposes strict regulatory targets.

Significant progress has been made, with reports indicating that the river system is no longer impaired. The council has documented numerous projects aimed at improving water quality, including a proactive measure by the Town of Jupiter to address nitrogen loading from reverse osmosis discharge. Jupiter is in the process of constructing a deep injection well to mitigate this issue, which is expected to lead to substantial improvements in water quality.

The meeting also addressed stormwater management, with concerns raised about outdated systems designed primarily to quickly remove water from landscapes without treatment. This design has led to pollutants, such as grass clippings and automotive fluids, flowing directly into the river. The committee emphasized the need for public education on the connection between stormwater runoff and river health. By raising awareness, the community can take steps to reduce pollution entering the storm drains, which contribute to the degradation of the river ecosystem.

In conclusion, the EAC meeting underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in environmental management and the need for community engagement in protecting local waterways. As projects continue to unfold, the committee remains focused on monitoring progress and addressing ongoing challenges to ensure the long-term health of the Loxahatchee River and its surrounding environment.